The Maputo City Maritime Court, which has been in operation since August 2022, deals with issues related to crimes at sea, such as piracy, illegal fishing and other offences involving vessels and crews. This body, which is the first of its kind to operate in the country, was created with the aim of consolidating the judicial system’s response to the challenges of the maritime sector, according to the newspaper Noticias.
According to João Guilherme, the presiding judge of the Maritime Court, the institution’s main vocation is to resolve maritime disputes, including the seizure of vessels, labour disputes between crews and shipowners and the fight against illegal practices that threaten marine resources and safety in national waters.
‘The court was conceived to fill an important gap in the Mozambican judicial system, considering the strategic importance of the maritime sector for the country’s economy and sovereignty,’ explained the magistrate.
Although it started its activities recently, the creation of the maritime courts dates back to the 1990s, having been established by Law no. 5/96 of 4 January, based on the 1990 Constitution.
However, due to various institutional limitations, these courts only began to be installed in 2022, with the approval of the new Organic Law on Maritime Courts (Law no. 10/22, of 7 July), which regulates their structure and operation.
‘Our biggest challenge is to make the existence and function of this court known to both coastal communities and maritime operators,’ said João Guilherme, underlining the importance of partnerships with other entities, such as the Maritime Police, the National Sea Institute (INAMAR) and international organisations, in the fight against illegal practices and the protection of maritime resources.
Among the cases already analysed, the court has registered cases related to unauthorised fishing and the irregular circulation of vessels, reinforcing the body’s role in defending national waters. The president also stressed the need for continuous training of magistrates and technicians working in the maritime area, given the technical and specialised nature of the cases dealt with.
With the aim of consolidating its position as a benchmark in the sector, the Maputo Maritime Court is committed to raising awareness and improving procedural efficiency, strengthening the judicial response to the challenges posed by the increase in activities at sea. This effort is considered essential to guarantee the sustainability of marine resources and promote a safe and fair environment for all maritime operators.
The court has plans to expand its operations to other coastal regions of the country, ensuring greater coverage and efficiency in the administration of maritime justice.
